Description
This refreshing Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad Delight combines the natural sweetness of apples and carrots with the vibrant crunch of red cabbage and nuts. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and citrus juices, this salad is a perfect light and healthy side dish or quick meal that revitalizes your daily menu with crisp textures and balanced flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup finely shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or dried cranberries)
- 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Grate the Carrots: Begin by grating 2 cups of fresh carrots into a large mixing bowl to form the base of your salad.
- Prepare and Add Apples: Core and dice 2 cups of apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are preferred for their tartness and sweetness), then immediately add them to the bowl to prevent browning.
- Add Cabbage and Mix-ins: Finely shred 1 cup of red cabbage and add it along with 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or dried cranberries), 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans), and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for added texture and flavor.
- Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper as needed to achieve a flavorful balance.
- Chill the Salad: Refrigerate the tossed salad for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to serve it chilled.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnishing with additional chopped nuts or fresh parsley for extra crunch and color.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance sweetness and add crispness.
- For a vegan adaptation, substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives.
- Chilling the salad helps meld flavors but can be served immediately if pressed for time.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dressing for a warm spice twist.
- Toast nuts before adding for enhanced flavor and crunch.
